Doubtful explanation of burns, especially to soles, palms, back or buttocks

Burns with a pattern from an electric burner, iron or cigarette

Immersion burns with a distinct boundary line

Frightened of parents or afraid to go home

Emotional Abuse

Lags in physical development

Bizarre behavior

Fearfulness of adults or authority figures

Revelations of highly inappropriate discipline, i.e., being enclosed in a dark closet,
forced to drink or eat inedible items

Domestic violence

Sexual Abuse

Venereal disease in a child of any age

Evidence of physical trauma or bleeding to the oral, genital or anal areas

Refusing to change into gym clothes

Running away from home and not giving any specific complaint

Sexual knowledge/behavior or use of language not appropriate to age level

Physical Neglect

Lack of basic needs (housing, clothing, food)

Lack of essential health care and high incidence of illness

Extreme poor hygiene on a regular basis

Inappropriate clothing in inclement weather on a consistent basis

Abandonment

Dependency

Child’s parent, guardian or custodian is unable to provide for care or supervision
and lacks appropriate care arrangement as the result of physical or mental illness,
substance abuse, developmental disability, arrest or natural disaster and may be
temporary or permanent

The child has no parent, or guardian in the home responsible for care or supervision

Source: NORTH CAROLINA GENERAL STATUTES - Chapter 7B Juvenile Code

It is important to note that these indicators are by no means all inclusive or absolute
proof or evidence that abuse or neglect has occurred. If you have any questions
or concerns whether or not a child is a victim of child abuse or neglect you should
call the hotline at 336-703-ABUSE (2287).